Breast Reduction

GalaFLEX or Durasorb are brand names of an internal soft tissue scaffold made of absorbable, strong, synthetic suture material. While this mesh is more often used in breast implant revision procedures, it can be placed for extra lower pole support in breast reduction procedures if needed. Dr. MaDan will assess your tissues and may recommend additional soft tissue support. The most likely patient to benefit from the placement of an internal bra is someone with loose skin and a history of massive weight loss, weight loss surgery, or gastric bypass surgery.

Yes, a breast reduction is performed at an accredited surgical center under general anesthesia provided by an anesthesiologist. Typically, an IV is placed in the pre-op holding room. You are given IV medications for relaxation and induction of anesthesia. After you are asleep, an airway (LMA- laryngeal mask airway or ETT- endotracheal tube) is placed to assist your breathing during the surgery. When you are awakened from anesthesia, the breathing tube is removed. Some patients may experience a sore throat afterward. This is temporary and usually resolves quickly. It is important to inform your plastic surgeon and the anesthesiologist of any adverse effects of prior anesthesia (including nausea) or family history of anesthesia problems. Anyone taking GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide should pause their injections for a minimum of 1 week before surgery to minimize the risk of aspiration. It is acceptable to resume those medications after surgery.

Yes, the minimum requirement is having someone drive you home from surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours after anesthesia. Depending on your home situation, you may find assistance beneficial, especially if you have young children, pets, or other lifting requirements. You can drive 24 hours after stopping all narcotic pain medications.

Yes, you will be placed in a supportive bra following surgery. You should wear this bra at all times except when showering. This bra will support and protect the tissues throughout recovery. You will not be allowed to wear underwire bras for a minimum of 6 weeks following the procedure. In approximately 3 months, you’ll see your final shape. At that time, it will be beneficial to be remeasured for your new bra size.

The recovery process is different for everyone. Generally, you may feel sore and tight after surgery. Drainage from the lateral breast after liposuction is normal and should subside within 48 hours after surgery. Swelling peaks 72 hours after your procedure. The biggest risk in breast reduction surgery is bleeding. Dr. MaDan will never leave the operating room if something is bleeding. While the risk is extremely low, approximately 4%, we want to optimize your safety and minimize the post-operative risks.

Avoid all exercise and intense activities for 2 weeks following your procedure. After 2 weeks, light activity is acceptable. Light activities include walking, stationary bike, slow Stairmaster—nothing high impact or causing excess bouncing like running or jumping. You will have a weight restriction of 10 pounds for the first 4 weeks following surgery. Upper body exercises should be minimized for at least 6 weeks.

Dr. MaDan recommends waiting to resume strenuous CrossFit-like exercises, bodybuilding, or heavy weightlifting with a barbell (heavy, intense, repetitive upper body exercises) for at least 3 months.

Time off from work depends on your occupation and desired speed to return to work. When you no longer need narcotic pain medication and can abide by all restrictions, it is typically acceptable to return to work. A doctor’s note can be provided for you outlining your specific restrictions. Typically, Dr. MaDan recommends a weight restriction of 10 pounds or less for the first month, then 30 pounds or less for weeks 4 through 6.

Yes. Routine mammograms begin at age 40 and should be performed annually. High-risk screenings should begin at age 35. Your care team (primary care, OB-GYN) should be made aware of your breast reduction surgery. The breast imaging team should also be made aware of this, as post-surgical changes may be seen on mammography.

No. Dr. MaDan performs a meticulous multi-layer closure to ensure the contours of the breast are protected. All sutures are absorbable and do not require removal. After surgery, Dr. MaDan covers the incisions with steri-strips that will remain in place until your first post-operative appointment. Once the steri-strips are removed, Dr. MaDan will start you on her medical-grade scar therapy regimen to ensure your scar becomes almost invisible.

Permanent sensory changes following breast reduction surgery are rare. However, temporary changes are common. After things have healed and settled, nipple sensation typically returns to normal in 2 to 3 months. However, like any other scar, the incision and resulting scar will always remain numb.

Yes, any surgical incision will leave a scar. Dr. MaDan believes the size, shape and position of the reduced breast are more important than actual scars as they will significantly diminish over time. Initially, the anchor pattern scars will appear red but will fade and soften over time. Dr. MaDan will provide you with her medical-grade scar therapy regimen to help the scar fade and achieve the best possible appearance.

No. After your breast reduction surgery, your chest will feel tight. Sometimes, the liposuctioned area (lateral breast and axilla) is the most sore and tender. Although your chest may feel tight and sore, you should be able to perform activities like brushing your teeth and washing your hair without causing surgical complications. It’s important to use your normal arm mobility as shoulder stiffness can occur.